Nearly 1,050 Stratford children participated in the Stratford Library’s Summer Reading Challenge for independent readers or the Read to Me program — 50 more than last year and the most successful Challenge on record..
Both programs are part of the Harkins Heroes Reading Program.
Students read a record 18,700 books at the end of the program, 1,000 more books than last year, according to the library.
Librarians reported the number was continuing to go up, however, because children were still adding books read onto their online accounts.
Children’s librarians “Miss Tess” Beck, Caitlin “Miss A” Augusta, and “Miss Martha” Simpson added a new incentive this year. The women pledged to dye their hair should readers reach the 10,000, 15,000 and 20,000 marks, respectively. Miss Tess dyed her hair purple, and Miss A added a blue streak to hers.
The program, which ran from June 2 through Aug. 9, was packed full of incentives for kids, including tickets for raffle prizes, free books, Bounce U passes, and grab bag prizes.
The library and the town congratulated young readers who registered and read eight books or more at the Harkins Heroes Summer Reading Challenge Party at the Baldwin Center Aug. 13.
Readers received a certificate, t-shirt, a goodie bag, a photo with Mayor Harkins and free ice cream sundae.
Casey Carle of Bubble Mania performed.
Mayor John Harkins, children’s Librarian Tess Beck, Stratford Library Director Barbara Blosveren, and children’s Librarian Caitlin Augusta (far right) congratulate the Schmidt sisters (from left) Alyssa, Sara and Kiersten, students of Stratford Academy, in finishing the Harkins Heroes Reading Program at the celebration at the Baldwin Center on Aug. 13. Nearly 1,050 Stratford children participated this year.